Bouvet Island | One of The Most Remote Islands in the World

Ever thought of combining an expedition to the remotest continent in the world with a trip to the most isolated island in the world?

Even though Bouvet Island is not a usual destination for expeditions visiting Antarctica, it has developed a mysterious aura around it. Be it the remote location or a few spooky tales surrounding it, the island has started attracting attention from those looking for a thrilling voyage. 

While reaching the island is extremely challenging, it is an ideal destination for intrepid adventurers. Beyond Antarctica, this is as remote as it can get.

Why Bouvet Island isn’t a common destination

The island was discovered in 1739 and named after its discoverer, Jean-Baptiste-Charles Bouvet de Lozier, the leader of a French expedition. Such is the island's remoteness that only a few explorers could reach it in the next few decades and most failed to make a landing. A confirmed landing was made by George Norris, commander of the ship Sprightly, in 1825.

The geographical isolation of Bouvet Island makes it a rarely visited destination. While it is only approachable by ships, the island is far away from standard cruise ship routes to Antarctica. The only way you can visit is by joining a specialized expedition, or by chartering a private vessel.

Moreover, landing is extremely challenging as steep cliffs border the island on all sides. Even if your ship has a helicopter, you will need a permit from the Norwegian Polar Institute to land it. In human history, only a few people - probably less than 100 - have set foot on this remote piece of land. 

Climate

Bouvet Island has an Antarctic maritime climate and the mean temperature is -1°C. While it remains covered with clouds and thick fog for most parts of the year, the sunlight can be intense on clear days. Spot temperatures can reach as high as 20°C on such days. 

The weather conditions are unpredictable on the island. A clear day can turn windy and cloudy within a few minutes. Geologically, the island was formed from a shield volcano. However, the glaciers hide most of the volcanic features.

The land area of the island is 59 square kilometres and 93% of it is covered by thick glaciers. The sea around the island can be rough and during winter it remains surrounded by pack ice.

Can you visit Bouvet Island?

Because of its remoteness, Bouvet Island is not mentioned in Antarctica travel guides and tourism activities are close to non-existent. Beyond the animals, Bouvet island’s population is zero, except for occasional visits by a team of scientists.

Some cruise ships undertake a journey to Bouvet Island from the South Sandwich Islands. However, making a landing from a zodiac is hazardous due to the heavy swells. The safest way to land is by helicopter. But foggy conditions make such landings challenging.

In case you manage to make a landing, most of the island is inaccessible due to the glacial cover. Watching the wildlife and the glacial scenery around the research station is possible. However, the glaciers have not been surveyed for crevasses. So, travelling across them without safety equipment and a guide is not advised. 

Visit Antarctica with Secret Atlas

A Small Ship Expedition to Antarctica with the Secret Atlas team is an opportunity to break free and synchronize with the rhythms of nature. Our journeys allow you to witness the wild beauty of Antarctica from close quarters with a small group of like-minded explorers and photographers. Whether you are on a vacation with your loved one or a solo traveller, we welcome all guests looking for their next adventure.